Saigon Kids Site

WANTED; INFORMATION ABOUT THE MARCH 14, 1963 EXPLOSION

Submitted by Carol (Carl) Cini (ACS)

I am almost finishing writing my book “The Spy and His CIA Brat” which includes a chapter on experiences in Saigon 1962-1963.

As a 14 year old, I was at a party one evening on March 14, 1963, enjoying the Beach Boys, dancing, and having fun. I went outside to admire some paper Chinese lanterns on a wall dividing us from another party next door that was given by Robert Patazian of Television Associates. As I was admiring the lanterns an explosion took place on the opposite side of the wall from me. All I remember was the ball or orange fire and smoke and I lost my hearing due to the explosion. I remember my classmates running out of our party but could not hear them.

I’m trying to get more information as to what when on.

If you have any memories of this event, please leave them in the Comments section below. Any and all information will be appreciated.

Hello,
Our family moved to Saigon shortly after my dad was transferred from his post in Seattle. He worked at MAAG, this was in the spring of 1962. We lived in an apartment building on Vothan street.
I remember the lightning fixtures would occasionally blow up and catch fire. I think it was caused by the high voltage in the power lines, and the poor quality of the light bulbs. Could this be what your remembering?
I also remember shooting geckos off the wall with my bb gun, but that’s another story. I was in the 3rd and 4th grade at ACS.
Tom Jacobs